Lakers Facing Backlash for Bronny James Decision Before Warriors Game

Lakers Facing Backlash for Bronny James Decision Before Warriors Game originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James, the son of LeBron James, is set to appear in his second straight Summer League. Selected 55th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, James appeared in 27 games for Los Angeles last season. He also spent time with the South Bay Lakers, the G League affiliate for LA.

In 18 G League games between the regular season and Tip-Off Tournament, James averaged 18.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists. Flashing signs of potential, the former USC guard is hoping to build on that in his second professional campaign.

His first opportunity to do that will come in Summer League.

As they have done in recent seasons, the Lakers are participating in the California Classic, which precedes Las Vegas Summer League. Tipping off against the Golden State Warriors on Saturday, Los Angeles decided to hold James out for the Summer opener.

"Doesn’t look like Bronny’s suiting up today," Matthew Peralta of Lakers Nation reported on X.

Doesn’t look like Bronny’s suiting up today pic.twitter.com/HLmYzeMWq0

— Matthew Peralta (@_MatthewPeralta) July 5, 2025

While it is unclear if this is injury related, NBA fans were upset to find out James would not be suiting up on Saturday. The Lakers quickly faced backlash from fans who feel James should be getting as many reps as possible.

"For what??? This is stupid dawg," said one.

"We don't get to see bronny or our only draft pick. So annoying man," said another.

"Bro need reps as much as possible," one added.

"I love bronny but why are we load managing 20 year olds??" one asked.

"I know it’s 3 games in 4 days but bronny should be playing. Reps are a good thing," another stated.

Related: Steph Curry's Message to LeBron James Turns Heads After Warriors-Lakers Trade Report

Related: Lakers’ Austin Reaves Had One Word for LeBron James Amid Trade Rumors

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 5, 2025, where it first appeared.